The Analects of Confucius First Edition
A first edition, first impression of The Analects of Confucius by Arthur Waley (George Allen & Unwin, 1938) is worth about $1,063 unsigned in near fine condition, based on recorded sales. The first point to check: Copyright page: “First published in 1938” with no later impression stated.
Market value · Unsigned, near fine
$1,063
Valued from 1 recorded sales in the last 12 months.
What a copy is worth
| Condition | Unsigned |
|---|---|
| Fine | $1,222 |
| Near fine | $1,063 |
| Very good | $904 |
How to identify this edition
These points tell this edition apart from other printings and editions of The Analects of Confucius.
✓ Copyright page: “First published in 1938” with no later impression stated
✓ Dust jacket: cream, title lettered in red
✓ Binding: tan cloth, spine lettered in black (a green-cloth issue was made for the China Society)
Common questions
- How do I know if my copy of The Analects of Confucius is a first edition, first impression?
- ✓ Copyright page: “First published in 1938” with no later impression stated ✓ Dust jacket: cream, title lettered in red ✓ Binding: tan cloth, spine lettered in black (a green-cloth issue was made for the China Society) The identification points above show each one.
- How much is a first edition, first impression of The Analects of Confucius worth?
- $904–$1,222 unsigned, depending on condition and whether it is signed (values as of November 2026). Values come from recorded sales of this exact printing, not asking prices.
- Can I sell my copy of The Analects of Confucius?
- Yes. We value the exact copy from recorded sales and make a firm cash offer, free and with no obligation to sell.
Selling a copy?
We value the exact copy from recorded sales and make a firm cash offer, free and with no obligation. Get an offer.